Nicks Boots Podcast: From Start to Finish

In this episode, Kelsey is out of her natural habitat and in front of the camera. "From Start to Finish" is named for our founder, Nikolai Blahuczyn, who took pride in making boots by hand, as quoted: from start to finish. Nicks takes listeners into the world of handmade boots in the Pacific Northwest. Thank you for tuning in! Please like, share, and subscribe for more updates, and leave...

Take a peek behind the curtain as we sit down with Jordan and Tyler from Heat Straps. After years of collaborating on heavy-duty jackets, we're teaming up to create a boot! The best part?! The UpperDucker is available NOW! Head over to nicksboots.com and grab yourself a pair as we brainstorm.  "From Start to Finish" is named for our founder, Nikolai Blahuczyn, who took pride in maki...

We're back with a classic Q&A this week. "From Start to Finish" is named for our founder, Nikolai Blahuczyn, who took pride in making boots by hand, as quoted: from start to finish. Nicks takes listeners into the world of handmade boots in the Pacific Northwest. Thank you for tuning in! Please like, share, and subscribe for more updates, and leave a review and rating if you enjo...

In this episode, we sit down with a key team member from the front office to talk about what it’s like to help keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. From unexpected career paths to the value of customer feedback, we get into the challenges and rewards of the job—and what makes it all worth it. Thank you for tuning in! Please like, share, and subscribe for more updates, and leave a review...

We’re back with another episode of the Nicks Boots “From Start to Finish” podcast. This time, we’re diving into some wild posts from the subreddit — from 20-year-old Rangers still going strong to Packer roller skates and everything in between. A few laughs, a few hot takes, and plenty of boot talk. "From Start to Finish" is named for our founder, Nikolai Blahuczyn, who took pride in maki...

We're going live to celebrate our 100th podcast episode with a Q&A! This milestone is all thanks to you—our listeners—so we're turning the mic around and answering your questions live. Ask us anything about the podcast, the topics we've covered, behind-the-scenes insights, or what’s next. You don't want to miss this! "From Start to Finish" is named for our founder...

In this episode, the team reflects on the challenges and successes of a major shop renovation. They share behind-the-scenes stories about moving equipment and reorganizing production while still making boots, highlighting how the chaos ultimately brought the team closer together. With a mix of humor, honesty, and big ideas for future expansions, it’s a lively look at how growing pains can turn int...

Why do some Nicks Boots orders ship faster than others? In this episode, Shuyler, Rebecca, and Kelsey break down the real factors behind lead times—from leather availability and tannery delays to production limitations and Quick Ship prioritization. If you’ve ever wondered why your order isn’t moving yet, this honest and detailed conversation has the answers. Thank you for tuning in! Please like,...

In this episode of the Nicks Boots Podcast, we’re answering your questions! From boot builds and break-in tips to leather options, sizing advice, and behind-the-scenes insight into how we do things here at Nicks—this Q&A covers it all. Whether you’re a longtime customer or just getting into handmade boots, there’s something in here for everyone. Have a question you want featured in a future ep...

In this episode, we share highlights from our annual Nicks Contender Championship Finale—including Jono’s incredible story of hiking national parks in his Urban Loggers, getting engaged, and stepping into a new life in Vermont. We also feature a reflection from “Mediocre Cookie” and his 1964 Monarch boots, tying personal growth to the evolving patina of fine leather. These stories go beyond boots—...

Welcome back to part two of our deep dive into the unexplained disappearance of 32-year-old David Langley. In last week's episode, we uncovered the strange circumstances surrounding Langley’s vanishing. A reserved groundskeeper at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Saint Albans, Vermont, Langley had no known family and lived a quiet life—until October 1st, 2008, when his landlord, Sam Dalton, reported h...

We're shaking things up in this episode! Join Lucas and Luke as they dive into an engaging back-and-forth, exchanging questions about the Small Goods Department.  But that’s not all—producer Kelsey has thrown in a few unexpected curveballs to keep them on their toes. Get ready for a fun, insightful, and unpredictable conversation about the finer details of leather goods and beyond! Got a ques...

In this episode, we tackle your top questions about what's next for Nicks Boots in 2025, including plans to expand ThZD with new models and sizes, our favorite (and most surprising) additions to the catalog this year, and a special teaser for the 5th anniversary of the ND series. We also dive into whether Bullhide will be part of Quick Ship and break down the goal behind the HD line. Got a qu...

In this episode, we’re catching you up on everything new happening at Nicks. We’re expanding configuration options for Wickett & Craig leathers, giving you more options than ever to build your perfect pair of boots. Plus, we’ve officially launched our Zero Drop boot — a game-changer for those looking for a more natural, barefoot-style fit without compromising durability. We also dive into some...

The second round of the Contender Championship 2025 is officially wrapped up! A huge thank you to everyone who participated—your dedication and craftsmanship continue to impress. We’re inspired by the talent in this community and appreciate each and every one of you for being part of this journey. Thank you for tuning in! Please like, share, and subscribe for more updates, and leave a review and r...

https://nicksboots.com/strider-zero-drop/ Zero Drop has come to the PNW! The Strider is our first-ever boot built on a true Zero Drop last. The Thurman-ZD last provides an anatomical foot shape with the more tactile feel of the zero drop allowing for more stability on the ground. Available with our new sole offerings: Vibram Honey Unit Lug, Voyageur Outsole, and the Kletterlift Outsole. Each of th...

Welcome back to the Nicks Boots Podcast! This episode, we’re diving into your Reddit questions, covering everything from Dr. Sole half soles on Packer boots to the best leather for hand feel. We also break down why Wickett & Craig leathers carry a higher price tag, the challenges of working with vegetable-tanned leather, and how leather yields impact pricing. Plus, we discuss upcoming product...

Join us for this episode of the Nicks Boots Podcast as Shuyler sits down with Nick and John from Horween Leather Co. We’re diving deep into Horween’s rich history, exploring how they’ve perfected the art of leather tanning for over a century. From the development of iconic leathers to the craftsmanship behind specialty tannages, we cover it all—including an in-depth look at New Spokane , a unique...

The first phase of the Contender Championship 2025 is officially in the books! A huge thank you to everyone who submitted an entry—your stories and dedication have been the talk of the shop. We’re continually inspired by the passion and skill within this community, and we appreciate each and every one of you for being part of it. Thank you for tuning in! Please like, share, and subscribe for more...

In this episode of the Nicks Boots "From Start to Finish" podcast, Shuyler, Rebecca, and producer Kelsey discuss the latest company updates and initiatives as we kick off the year. Highlights include the launch of Spokane Leathers in collaboration with Horween, the potential return of a simplified Try-On program, and exciting new sole options like half soles from Dr. Sole. We also introd...

Spokane is a new Horween leather that seamlessly blends traditional formulas with modern technology to create a material that is both durable and aesthetically appealing. Spokane takes the base tannage of the ChromePak article and introduces a modern vegetable re-tannage, enhancing its comfort and ability to age beautifully. Following the re-tannage, the leather is hot-stuffed with a proprietary b...

We're back with a classic - the Q&A! Join us today as Shuyler, and Rebecca sit down to answer some of your burning questions from Reddit.  As always thanks for listening & thank you for being a part of our community! If you made it to the end of the episode - We wanna know, is a crepe an egg dish or not?  Thank you for tuning in! Please like, share, and subscribe for more updates, and...

Get ready—it's time for the 2nd Annual Contender Championship! This year, we're shaking things up with some exciting new twists. Shuyler and Lucas are breaking it all down in our latest episode, so don’t miss out! Want to stay in the loop or throw your hat in the ring? Join the action over on our subreddit and be part of the community that makes it all happen. Let the countdown begin! Th...

Welcome to the Nicks Boots: From Start to Finish podcast! In this episode, Shuyler is joined by Lucas, Rebecca, and Kelsey to reflect on 2024 and share plans for 2025. They discuss milestones like completing an ISO audit, improving customer service, renovating their facility, and celebrating the success of the Western boot line and Brandle sub-brand. The team highlights strides in quality control,...

In this episode, Shuyler sits down with a few of the key bootamkers at Nicks to reflect on achievements, challenges, and lessons of 2024. Together, they share insights on what’s coming next for 2025, discussing innovations, goals, and the evolving landscape of handmade boots.  Thank you for tuning in! Please like, share, and subscribe for more updates, and leave a review and rating if you enjoyed...